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Diana Franceschin

Francesco stands next to a mountain of raw rice, ready to convert it into one of the region's premier products.

Carnaroli rice is one of Lombardy's most revered products and is part of an age-old tradition of cultivation.

The café at 10 Corso Como, a shopping and dining complex near Piazza Gae Aulenti.

Steeped in tradition, Pasticceria Marchesi was originally founded in 1824 and remains one of Milan's finest pastry shops.

Jewellery on display at Merzaghi, a family-run jeweller where father and son Marco and Mauro handcraft everything.

Bartenders at Osteria del Sole, a tavern dating back to 1465, that draws a good mix of international travellers and locals.

Tortellini in brodo — tiny, hand-twisted pasta filled with parmesan and various pork meats, swimming in broth — is the speciality at Da Nello.

Strolling in the shade of the city’s many porticoes provide opportunities for discovering hidden gems such as local shops and stalls.

Travellers unafraid of a climb can enjoy a panoramic view of Bologna from the top of Torre Prendiparte.

Father and son owners greet regular customers at Formaggeria Barbieri in Mercato delle Erbe.